Germany Travel – Top 100 Sights
Introduction
From the gorgeous Black Forest in Southern Germany to the idyllic Rhine Valley of Central Germany, no country in Europe has as much to offer the traveler as Germany. With its magnificent river valleys and mountain ranges, its stunningly beautiful cities and awe-inspiring medieval villages, and its vast array of cultural offerings, Germany will leave you enchanted and captivated. Whether you’re a culture vulture or an outdoors enthusiast, a day-tripper or a globe-trotter, this guide will help you plan the perfect Germany getaway, highlighting the top 100 sights to see and experience in Germany.
Berlin: Capital City
Germany’s capital, Berlin, is the country’s historical, cultural and political center. It has a unique charm of both the old and new, blending ancient architecture with modern sophistication. The Brandenburg Gate stands as a reminder of the city’s divided past, and of its miraculous reunification, while the Berlin Wall is a powerful reminder of Germany’s troubled history. It’s worth a visit to the historic Checkpoint Charlie and the renowned Reichstag building. When it comes to museums, the list is seemingly endless, from The Museum Island—a complex of five adjoining museums to the Pergamon Museum, which features an impressive range of antiquities from the Greco-Roman world, the Middle East, and northern Europe.
Munich
Munich, the Bavarian capital bursting with medieval charm, is home to the richly ornate Marienplatz square and the iconic Frauenkirche church. The nearby Hofgarten is a picturesque English garden, and the Deutsches Museum, a must-see for science and technology enthusiasts. There is more to Munich than just beer though, with a range of art galleries, churches, and palaces. In downtown Munich, the Viktualienmarkt is an outdoor market full of Bavarian delights, from souvenirs to fresh fruits, veggies, meat and cheese. The 19th-century Nymphenburg Palace is a perfect day-trip, full of stunning paintings, grand tapestries, beautiful furniture and intricate sculptures.
Saxony-Anhalt
The East-German region of Saxony-Anhalt has no shortage of incredible sights to be seen. The city of Magdeburg family friendly activities, with many of its attractions focusing on its rich cultural history. Don’t miss the Magdeburg Cathedral and the Magdeburg Castle, which was built in the 13th century. The city of Halle is home to the monumental Giebichenstein Castle and Germany’s oldest university, Martin Luther University, founded in 460. Don’t forget to explore the quaint villages along the famous Via Regia Cycle Path, which passes through Halle and Magdeburg. Finally, don’t miss the incredible Rübeland Mountain Caves and the quaint wine village of Stintfang.
Palatinate
The beautiful region of Palatinate is home to some of the finest wines in Germany, not to mention gorgeous Mediterranean-style landscapes and picturesque vineyards. Don’t miss a trip to the legendary castle of Heidelberg, one of Germany’s most impressive fortifications, which towers above the city on the Neckar River. Another must-see is the Nürburgring race course, one of the world’s most famous motor racing tracks. Other smaller towns, such as Bad Dürkheim, don’t have the same level of fame, but they’re equally mesmerizing.
The Bavarian Alps
The iconic Bavarian Alps feature some of Germany’s most stunning scenery. The highest mountain in Germany is the Zugspitze at 2,964 meters above sea level, and the gorgeous Bavarian lakes of Königssee and Chiemsee are great for boating, fishing, swimming and skiing during the wintertime. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities and cultural attractions, with iconic sights like the Neuschwanstein and Linderhoff castles, the Oberammergau Passion Play and the ancient towns of Mittenwald and Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
Rhine Valley
Meandering along between the banks of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, this region packs in a tremendous amount of history and culture. Europe’s most important river is the region’s lifeblood, and along with it come small cities from Mainz to Cologne, which are full of cobblestone streets, old churches and incredible architecture. The mountain resorts of Garmisch and Oberstdorf are popular for skiing and hiking, and the Rhine Gorge is a must-see, with its towering cliffs and romantic castles.
Black Forest
The Black Forest’s dense pine forests provide a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, especially brown bears, lynxes, wolves and wildcats. The unique fairy-tale landscape is undoubtedly a picturesque sight not to be missed. The Black Forest is also well known for its spas and resorts, best experienced in the towns of Baden-Baden and Freiburg, which offer some of the best spa experiences in Europe. Finally, the Großer Feldberg mountain, more than 890 meters above sea level, is the highest peak in the Black Forest and offers stunning views of the rooftops below.
Romantic Road
The Romantic Road showcases some of Germany’s most incredible medieval towns and breathtaking vistas. Spanning 350 km, the road connects the city of Füssen in the south, with Würzburg in the north-west. It takes travelers through beautiful Bavarian landscapes, and stunning cities like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Augsburg, Dinkelsbühl and Nördlingen. This region is ideal for those looking for quaint castles, culture, history and spectacular landscapes.
Hamburg
Hamburg, Germany’s second largest city, is packed full of attractions. The city boasts stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and a delicious selection of local cuisines. Here you’ll find the world’s largest model railway, the fascinating Miniatur Wunderland, and the delectable Fishmarket, full of fresh seafood and delicious eats. The city also offers boat tours and some of the country’s most interesting museums, from the International Maritime Museum to the Hamburg Museum of Art.
Heidelberg
Heidelberg is one of Germany’s oldest university cities, with a stunningly beautiful old town center, nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Neckar’. Heidelberg is home to a plethora of architectural wonders, most notably the Heidelberg Castle, as well as numerous museums, churches and fascinating underground passages. While you’re here take a leisurely stroll through the Philosopher’s Walk and enjoy beautiful views of the River Neckar. Don’t miss the chance to explore the world at Heidelberg Zoo, or take a romantic boat ride down the Neckar in the middle of a summer’s evening.
Cologne
Cologne, Germany’s fourth-largest city, is brimming with old-world charm, history and culture. The city offers some of the nation’s best shopping, along with many fantastic tourist attractions, such as the Cologne Cathedral, one of Germany’s largest Gothic churches. The city’s nightlife is an experience not to be missed, while the chocolate museum offers an indulgent and sweet journey through the history of one of Germany’s favorite treats. Finally, the city is home to numerous parks and gardens, such as the Royal Gardens of the Voltaire Palace, a beautiful green oasis that is perfect for strolling through.
Haxenhausen
Haxenhausen, located in the stunning Bavarian Alps, offers visitors a ravishing panorama of majestic mountainside trails, crystal clear lakes, and lush alpine meadows. An ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, Haxenhausen also boasts a 12th century castle and the 18th century chapel of St. Adrian. The quaint village is also the perfect jumping-off point to explore the nearby mountains and forests. Those looking for lesser known attractions should check out the old Haxenhausen Water Mill, which is attached to a restaurant, and the beautiful Aselle lake for canoeing and kayaking.
Dresden
Dresden, Germany’s eight-largest city, is located in the eastern part of the country, in the stunningly beautiful Elbe Valley. Dresden is a vibrant and enchanting city, with a range of cultural attractions, from the historic Semperoper opera house to the Zwinger royal palace. For those looking to get an understanding of the city’s dark history, don’t miss the ruins of the old city hall and the lavish Green Vault. Meanwhile, the tranquil Elbe Sandstone Mountains are a great destination for outdoor activities. Finally, experience some of Dresden’s beautiful parks and gardens, or take an enchanting stroll along the nearby river banks.
Essen
Located in the heart of the North Rhine-Westphalian region of Germany, Essen is the country’s largest city. It’s an industrial hub with a vibrant cultural scene, home to a world-class opera house, an assortment of museums and galleries, and some of Germany’s best shopping. The city’
